Siwa Oasis is a beautiful place to stay in the middle of Egypt’s Western Desert. This beautiful oasis is about 50 kilometers east of the Libyan border. Tall dunes and a sizable body of sand encircle it, protecting it from the outside oasis. Its remote position has helped Siwa keep its unique culture, making it an exciting place to visit if you want to taste Egypt.
Imagine a secret paradise in the middle of Egypt’s vast desert. It would be a peaceful place where old customs and stunning natural beauty come together. Welcome to Siwa Oasis, a secret gem that attracts tourists with its rich past, unique scenery, and warm Berber friendliness. In this piece, we’ll learn about all the great things about Siwa Oasis, including its exciting history, beautiful landscape, traditional buildings, well-known sights, delicious food, and more. Join us on this once-in-a-lifetime trip and discover what’s hidden in Siwa Oasis.
History and Why It’s Important to Culture
Ancient origins and connections to the Amazigh people
The past of Siwa Oasis goes back thousands of years. It is thought that people have lived there since ancient times, and it has close ties to the Amazigh people, who are also called Berbers. In Siwa, the Amazigh culture has grown and changed the area’s customs, language, and buildings.
The Oracle of Amun and Alexander the Great’s visit
The connection between Siwa and the Oracle of Amun is one of the most exciting parts of the city’s past. In ancient times, pharaohs and other important people visited the Oracle for spiritual advice. Alexander the Great was one of these people. He went on a dangerous trip through the desert to find the Oracle. This event in history made Siwa even more important in ancient Egypt.
Siwa Oasis in Egyptian Folklore and Literature
The Siwa Oasis has also been mentioned in Egyptian stories and books. It has been written about in stories and songs, praised for its beautiful scenery, and admired as a sign of peace and mystery. Artists, writers, and tourists are still drawn to it because it is appealing.
Geographical Features and Breathtaking Landscapes
The environment and streams are one of a kind.
In the middle of the desert, Siwa Oasis is home to a unique environment that does well. It has beautiful palm groves, olive groves, and mineral-rich natural springs that have kept people alive in this dry area for hundreds of years. The clear water from the sandy desert is nothing short of a miracle.
Salt Lakes and the Great Sand Sea
In addition to its green scenery, Siwa Oasis has beautiful salt lakes and the Great Sand Sea, which looks like a dream. Salt lakes like Lake Siwa and Lake Birket Siwa look out of this world because they mirror the colors of the sky and the desert around them. On the other hand, the Great Sand Sea attracts adventurers with its tall dunes that are perfect for sandboarding.
Traditional Architecture and Sustainable Living
Mud-brick buildings and the fortress of Shali
How the people of Siwa Oasis built their homes shows how creative and robust they were. Most of the buildings are made of mud bricks, which naturally keep out the heat of the desert. The castle of Shali, an old mud-brick stronghold, is one of the most exciting buildings. It is a live example of Siwa’s architectural history.
Qasr al-Farafra and traditional Berber houses
Qasr al-Farafra is an abandoned castle that has been turned into a museum. It shows how people used to live in traditional Siwan. It gives you a look into the past by showing traditional clothes, tools, and other items. The area is also full of conventional Berber houses with elaborate carvings, bright colors, and rooftop patios with breathtaking views.
Popular Activities and things to do
The Temple of the Oracle and the Bath of Cleopatra
A trip to Siwa Oasis would only be complete with seeing Cleopatra’s Bath, a natural spring that people think was Cleopatra’s favorite place to bathe. Another must-see place is the Temple of the Oracle, also called the Temple of Amun. This old temple is a physical reminder of how important Siwa is in history, filling you with a deep sense of awe.
Adventure sports and desert trips
Siwa Oasis has a lot of outdoor sports and desert trips for people who like to be on the edge of their seats. There are many exciting things to do in Dubai, such as quad biking, dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel trips. Spend time in the desert and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Siwa’s cultural events and ways of life
Siwa Oasis comes to life during its lively cultural events, which show what Berber customs are all about. The most well-known event is the Siyaha, also called the Siwa event. It is a time for people to get together and have fun with music, dance, poem readings, and traditional games. At this time, everyone in the town is happy, and anyone visiting is received with open arms.
Local Cuisine and Culinary Delights
Dates, olives, and the famous Siwa honey
Siwa Oasis is known for its food, which focuses heavily on foods from the area. Dates are a big part of Siwan food because they grow well in the valley. They are often given as a sweet treat or added to spicy meals. Siwa honey is another local treat known for its unique taste and healing qualities. Olives grow well in the dirt and are another essential part of Siwan food.
Traditional dishes like Sfinge and Bessara
Regarding classic meals, Sfinge and Bessara are two of the most popular. Sfinge is a simple doughnut made from flour, yeast, and sugar fried and often eaten with a cup of tea. Bessara, on the other hand, is a rich soup made from fava beans, garlic, and spices. It is warm and full of flavor.
How to Get to the Siwa Oasis
Choices for travel and getting around
You have to plan to get to Siwa Oasis, but the trip there is an adventure. Marsa Matruh is the closest airport. You can rent a car or take a bus to Siwa from there. You can also set up trips or hire local guides who can help you get around the desert and teach you about the history and culture of the oasis.
Places to stay and suggestions for where to stay
Siwa Oasis has a variety of places to stay for people with different prices and tastes. From eco-lodges that fit in with the wild environment to traditional guesthouses called “mudhif,” there are many options. Adrère Amellal, Shali Lodge, and Talist Siwa are all good places to stay.
Conclusion
Siwa Oasis is a natural oasis of peace where old history, beautiful scenery, and friendly people come together. Siwa has something for every tourist, from its exciting history and stunning natural features to its traditional building, delicious food, and unique events. Enjoy Siwa Oasis’s charm, get lost in its colorful fabric, and make memories that will last a lifetime.